Photography Portfolio Books

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   How do I make my own photography portfolio book to present my pictures in?
   I've tried finding stuff online, no luck! i'm in photography and we have to choose 5 final images to present somehow in a booklet portfolio, but I'm not sure how to make my own booklet. Something that looks nice and presentable. Any suggestions? thanks.

   • ANSWER:
     blurb.com
     excellent quality great price

2. QUESTION:
   Where can i get a Photography Portfolio Book from?
   Right i hope to start college soon and i need a photography portfolio book, the thing is i dont want to spend alot on printing aswell so i'm looking or a company that will also print my photos and put them in the book for me. I idealy want a British company but if there are any American companies that have a good repuatation i will consider.
   Thanks,
   Benjamin

   • ANSWER:
     Any print on-demand place will do it, some of the good ones include:

     Lulu http://www.lulu.com/
     Cafepress http://www.cafepress.com/cp/info/sell/books.aspx
     The cheapest I've found is Artscow http://www.artscow.com/
     as well there are -
     # My Publisher
     # Blurb
     # Shutterfly
     # Kodak Gallery
     # Snapfish

     these all produce bound books. If you want a traditional portfolio, buy one from Adorama or Freestyle Photo or Calumet and find a place that makes nice prints.

3. QUESTION:
   Photography Portfolio?
   I have a ten by twelve blank black paged portfolio book.
   The first page has an eight by ten photo, my best work.
   The rest have two photos a page, no writing.
   Should I put dates under the photos, or keep it so the photo says enough its self?
   Any suggestions on how to make my portfolio stand out?

   • ANSWER:
     A hard copy portfolio shouldn't have any dated photos in it. You want to put your best work in it and your best work isn't always your most recent. For that matter, dating it wouldn't be good. As a client, if i see things that are dated 6 months and beyond, my thinking would be that this person hasn't done any quality work for the last 6 months. You get the idea.. There are a few places online that make some nice albums of decent quality for about .

     Another tip is to have a variety of models. I use and refer a couple of photographers for wedding jobs in hawaii and clients always want to see if they have models that look like them. So vary the ethnicities of models in your port.. (whether it be weddings, fashion, runway, etc).

     For your web prescence it's a bit different. A web portfolio is a MUST and perhaps more important than a physical portfolio. You can have your portfolio in the form of a photo blog in which case dates are used (or have both a online port and a photoblog). Clients love photo blogs.. they absolutely love them and follow up on them..

     Ive listed a few sites in the sources. These are companies that implement photoblogs into their sites.

4. QUESTION:
   Where can I find a photography portfolio book at a decent price?

   • ANSWER:
     http://www.flickr.com/photos/lunapix
     contact me here amiryusuf83@yahoo.com

5. QUESTION:
   Photography portfolio?
   I need to have a portfolio for my business, which is photography. Can you give me a reference or even better, a link, to a company that designs and prints photography in book-form?

   • ANSWER:
     Blurb.com is the best I've come across so far. There is also Shutterfly.com, also very good. And there is also Graphistudio.com. Also mypublisher.com, not sure if its that good though.

6. QUESTION:
   Im starting a photography portfolio, what would be a good portfolio book?
   i would i like to get my work mostly printed i guess standard size, ( classic photogprah) and maybe i would like to fit alest 4 on each page of the book.

   can anybody give me some suggestions.

   • ANSWER:
     As with any advertising piece, you need to show off your excellent composition and perfect technical skills. Nothing will ruin your presentation than to have images that are even slightly out of focus or show camera or subject movement, over or under exposed or with colour shifts that could have been corrected at the time you shot the image

     Then with images of that quality, pick the ones that match the kind of subjects your potential clients would be assigning you.

7. QUESTION:
   im making a photography book portfolio?
   should i watermark my photos?

   • ANSWER:
     of cours you should...it looks that much more professional

8. QUESTION:
   Photography portfolio book help..?
   I'm putting together a photographic portfolio book for the first time and... I have no idea how to do it. I've bought a cheap folder to use and I have 15 prints to put in it, but I'm a little unsure of presentation.

   My questions are.. how exactly do I present it? Just the images? Or do I include credits with the prints? Should I have a title page? Etc etc

   Thanks in advance!!

   • ANSWER:
     My print portfolios have always been just prints. When I was looking for paid work they were 11x14 prints in a LEATHER book and the book was in a very fine carry case. This showed I was showing my best work before I even opened that case. It also went with the fact that I alway dressed UP just a bit mostly in a suit and tie. So, "bought a cheap folder to use" is my first red light. But that is just my point of view.

9. QUESTION:
   Photography books with posing ideas?
   I have recently taken up digital photography and I was wondering if there are any good resources for posing ideas for weddings, seniors, children etc. Surely there must be something out there that professional photographers use.

   For instance, when I go get my hair done they have books filled with hairstyles, don't photographers have these to let their clients pick out poses they like? I understand that most photographers use pictures they have taken, a portfolio, but where do they get ideas?

   Thanks!

   • ANSWER:
     You can try this website it has a lot of books regarding children through teens and family posing ideas. They may even have one for seniors but it is a good palce to start http://www.amherstmedia.com/miva/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AM&Product_Code=1826

10. QUESTION:
    Where can I buy Photograph books, portfolio, frames?
    I am in the process of opening my Photography studio but i need to get some senior like portfolio book that holds several pictures in it and some matte frames! Please help!

    • ANSWER:
      That's a broad range of items you are asking about, and they come in a broad range of quality and styles. Yo need to use a search engine and look through the various retailers for what you want. Basic shopping tip: always do a second search for an item by name to find the best price. and see if there are any reviews.

11. QUESTION:
    What do you put in an A Level photography portfolio?
    I am wanting to do photography for A Level and I need to put together a portfolio but I don't know how.
    Do I print out my photo's and stick them into a sketch book or do I put them on e.g. a memory stick or disc?

    And also, how many photo's should I put in and should I write details about the photo's i.e. why I like it or is that not needed?

    Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      Ive just started my secon year and I didnt need a portfolio when I started. I am only just starting to put one together now so dont worry about it too much unless they have asked you for one.

12. QUESTION:
    Where can I view photography collections books online for free?
    I need to find 4 books on 4 different photographers.
    They have to be books though, not websites or portfolios and the closest library is closed right now.

    • ANSWER:
      hi there.... try you look at this site. I found at google last week
      http://onlinedigitalphotographycourses.blogspot.com/

13. QUESTION:
    How can i display my photography portfolio?
    I plan to go to college in September, and i need a portfolio in order to get in, i have my photos which are all on the computer and i need an idea on how to display them in like a folder/sketch book or something, any ideas welcome, and stuff that is available in the UK thanks (:

    • ANSWER:
      Head to your nearest art store.
      Buy a portfolio book (8x10 minimum)
      Get your best shots printed
      put in book
      voila.

14. QUESTION:
    How do i set out a Photography Portfolio?
    I know what has to go into it. But, how do i present it? In a book? A folder? I'm not sure exactly. I really need your help.

    • ANSWER:
      You need to get yourself a proper portfolio holder.
      These can be anything from plastic covered with 10-20 pages
      through to top of the line leather.
      Minimum size should be A4

      For uni, I would say go for the cheaper option.
      Arrange the shots so there is a theme if possible if disparate shots then best (real attention grabbers) in the front.

      Have a look here for some ideas
      http://www.londongraphics.co.uk/acatalog/Portfolios_and_Bags.html?gclid=CLe__4K7sZgCFRaA3godDXjklQ

15. QUESTION:
    Creating a photography Portfolio.?
    I have seen several ways to create and present your portfolios.
    I have done some weddings where they get a keepsake book
    I really love the way the images are laid out. Every picture is perfectly viewable. Would these kind of books be acceptable to use as a portfolio?

    • ANSWER:
      they have portfolio books in most good camera stores
      i am working on three of them. (one for night shots and citiscapes, one for landscapes and weather, one for people and animals)

16. QUESTION:
    How large can a 7.2 megapixel photo be printed before it loses the quality of a professional photograph?
    Some of my 7.2 megapixel photos seem to be of a professional standard (thanks to photoshop). Rather than print them as normal photos I plan to print them as my own photography book/portfolio of about A3 size. How large can 7.2MP be before they lose quality? What's the minimum MP needed for quality A3 size photos?

    • ANSWER:
      I have a 7.2 MP camera and I have blown the picture up to 8 x10 with out losing any quality. I have never tried to go higher.

17. QUESTION:
    Photography portfolio for university interview..?
    Hi, I have an interview in a couple of weeks for a photography course, I have to present a portfolio. I am thinking of using Photobox to create a book, does anyone know any other sites that are good for creating photo books (UK) I have used them before and was really pleased but was wondering if there's any other option as far as creating a portfolio, also im not entirely sure of what it should look like, obviously I will include my best work, but how many photos should it contain and how should the cover look? anyone who has been in the same situation and could give some advice that would be great.
    Here's a link to my flickr any feedback would be great on what photos i could use etc, i will be uploading more photos to it today as i have just got back from travel ling. Thanks alot.
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/darrengoldsworthy

    • ANSWER:
      There's Blurb.

      I think I'd just use prints though, and put those in a folder. Then you can add new photos and remove photos etc. Once you start to take more photos, you may want to include those in your portfolio as well.

18. QUESTION:
    I need to make a college photography portfolio......?
    I need to make a college photography portfolio I have to put it in a album with most of my best pictures I have taken. I wasn't sure what type I was thinking of a photobook where there all ready printed or a book of plain white or black pages where I can add pictures please help I want to make it look professional
    thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Either are good. As you're probably only looking for 12 shots or so, I'd go for the album where you can slide in mounted pictures. Don't have too many photos. Just cut to the best then cut again.

19. QUESTION:
    Photography portfolio - Any ideas?
    I am working on a photography portfolio. I have three different sections: the evolution of life; beauty within the ugly; and the beauty of partying.

    Thusofar, I have the following photographs:

    Evolution of life - Pregnanat woman, eggs hatching, elderly woman at a retirement home

    Beauty within the ugly - A bird sleeping in garbage, a white rabbit tied to a string in a landfill

    Beauty of partying - A man carrying her drunk girlfriend home, a girl reading a book among a dancing crowd

    Does anyone have any suggestions for new pictures? I am working hard on this portfolio and I would truly appreciate any help. Thank you

    • ANSWER:
      IT is your portfolio so your up to bat. When I am working on a visual block I take a walk with my smaller camera, open my eyes and let my mind wonder. This is something I plan on doing Monday in fact. I too am in need of new images and trying to figure out the direction I want to take.

20. QUESTION:
    Help setting up Photography portfolio!?
    Hey, I'm in year 9 and i have been asked to write a letter saying why i want to get into GCSE Photography. I am also setting up a portfolio.

    I am not sure how to set up my portfolio.

    1. Should i use a book or stapled paper together?
    2. How should i print the photos? Glossy paper or normal?
    3. Should i write how i took the photos and what editing i used?

    P.s The portfoilo needs to fit into an envelope, ideally 6x4 or at the most A4 size.

    P.s.s It's not a professional one, but i want my photos to look nice

    Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      i would recomend a book
      and with glossy paper
      and yes annotations are always good, put them on a seperate piece of paper.

      your aim is to make it look as profestional as possiable xD

21. QUESTION:
    Where The Wild Things Are Photography Help?
    Okay so we're doing an assessment for a photography portfolio board and we had to choose a book on which we would base it upon. I chose Where The Wild Things Are but I can't think of any subject matter that I could use apart from a crown and a boat. Any help? We also have to develop the idea throughout the portfolio, over a series of sixteen photos. So i need a range of subject matter to do with the book.

    Or should i do a different book? Any suggestions?

    • ANSWER:
      No, don't do a different book. You're doing one of the best books, i mean there is so much creativity in there, i don't see how you can't develop anymore ideas than just a crown and a boat.
      The movie is coming out this year, go view the trailer to see if you can find good ideas from what the directors have developed, also take your mind off a typical subject matter (like objects and stuff like that). Try let your mind wander, take an abstract approach.
      I mean, isn't that what the book is about really? the boys imagination?
      How about a little kid? costume design? something amongst that

22. QUESTION:
    Creating a Photography Portfolio?
    First, I have a question about how to go about Copyrighting a photo. Do I just add the © at the botton of my photo myself with the date and name, or do I have to send my pics to get copyrighted somewhere?
    Also, how do I create a porfolio? Are there special binders or books for this?

    • ANSWER:
      Copyright:
      The minute you take the picture, the copyright belongs to you. To ensure people know it is copyrighted you can put the little C on the image. You can, if you want to, register your photos at Copyright.gov - This isn't always necessary.

      Portfolio:
      I highly recommend the book "Photo portfolio success," by John Kaplan. It can definitely answer all your questions and more. I've read the book three times now it's so informative. The book will tell you everything you need to know about choosing your photographs, basic placements of the photographs, etc. Pretty much anything presentation related.

      Here's some tips in case you don't purchase the book:
      1.Choose only your absolute best photographs.
      2.Categorize them according to subject.
      3.Your portfolio should only be one subject. Example: Nature. Then take a variety of photographs consisting of nature.

      Example: You're into portraits. It is your strongest point. Take all of your portrait pictures and choose the best. Then, categorize them according to the type of portrait they are. Take a few photographs from each category and put them into your binder. A portfolio should be minimum of 10 photographs. Most people and companies want less than 20. Also, let's say one one page you want two pictures. Make sure both pictures are the same size. I.E. 4x6. You can use different sizes, but it is recommended that you are consistent with your sizing.

      You can buy a Portfolio Binder at any arts store. They range from -200+. (Before purchasing the binder though, you need to decide what is going into it - Size of photographs, type...).

      Also, if you do not know which pictures to choose -- only the best ones, remember -- ask for people's opinions and go from there.

      For inspiration I would highly recommend getting a Flickr account if you don't have one. I find new things everyday on there!

      Here's my account to give you a feel of what it is about:
      www.flickr.com/ShortyDB43

      (Extra) - In case you are new to photography and your images are good
      Sell your photos:
      Internet:
      Deviantart.com - Free
      iStockphoto.com
      Ebay.com - Close To Free
      Shutterstock.com
      Alamy.com
      SmugSmug.com
      Imagekind.com - Free
      Redbubble.com - Free

      ^^http://www.redbubble.com/people/PicsAndClicks^^ - My Site on Redbubble

      To sell online you need to market yourself.

      1. Link to your site(s) that you are selling on whenever it is possible.

      2. Make some business cards - tutorials available online - and put the site you use for selling on the card. Pass these cards out whenever possible. Ask local stores if you can put some cards there, or better yet, if you can display a framed picture or two on their walls

      3. Give the cards you made to friends and family and make sure they pass them out, as well.

      Ex Card:
      (One of you best pictures as background)
      1.Name
      2.Number
      3.What type of photographer you are - short and to the point. I.E. Nature photographer
      4.Your website that you sell on
      --You can also put your E-Mail instead of the website or with the website

      Also, you can sell images to friends and family. Another thing I've seen some artists do to sell their work is to go to a local flee market.

      Check out local cafe's and restaurants. Many are willing to put an image or two up. They may not pay you to hang your picture, but you can put your card in the corner of the frame, and this will also expose your name to people. If they like it enough, they will go to your site.

      Dana

23. QUESTION:
    Photography Portfolio - tips and advice?
    I'm 15 years old and have always been interested in photography. My parents told me I should have a more stable career as photography is a very hard subject to get into. So I have decided that photography is going to be something that I do as a sideline. I'm hoping to own my own business one day, most probably a photography one, which I'll more than likely end up co-owning with my friend Charlotte who wants to be a full time photographer.
    So more to the point, I booked a connextions interview and had a chat with one of the people who work there. They suggested making a photography portfolio that I can present when looking for jobs in the photography business. The problem is that I have no idea what this is supposed to look like and be presented like. Is it meant to be very very proffesional/formal, or can it be more layed back? What book sort of thing should I buy for it and where?
    Also any tips on just general photography, like any tricks and advice that has really helped you out when you have been taking photographs?
    Thanks so much.

    • ANSWER:
      When in doubt, go conservative. All my portfolios are in basic black portfolios that hold 8x10's. No more than 20-25 of your best shots should in a portfolio. These can be purchased at any camera shop, I paid, I think, around .00 for each one. Only show your strongest work and don't put the best in first, nor do you want to save the best for last either.
      Photo Tips:
      1. know what your subject is ( I see sooo many photos and i am not quite sure what they photos of- besides the empty corn field!)
      2. Simplify the scene- no distractions from the subj
      3. Draw attention to the subj in some way

24. QUESTION:
    How do you create a portfolio for a job? please help?
    okay so i'm taking a photography course and was just told to make a portfolio on the job you would like to make a career, the career i picked is photography so can any one please tell me how to make a photography portfolio? it cant be an online portfolio it needs to be one done in a book form, can any one tell me what it should include? pleaase help

    • ANSWER:
      If you create a portfolio, you can use 5 or 6 nice black & white pics at the beginning of the portfolio and finish with 8 to 10 color pics. The person interviewing looks to b/w pics first most of the time. Its harder to take a nice b/w than a color shot. Color has to be modified a little in Photoshop as far as fixing contrast.

25. QUESTION:
    I'd like to see other peoples photography portfolio.?
    where can i see? i just like to compare. i just finished mine but it's a book not online and i'd like to se what other people do just curious. so if you have one you'd link to help me out please and thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      I'm in the process of whittling down my Flickr images and my website is very basic, but here you go...

      http://www.ianfisher.info
      http://www.flickr.com/photos/ianfisher

      .

26. QUESTION:
    what to include in a photography portfolio for university?
    i was wondering what to include in my portfolio, i know on average how many pieces of your work and how its only got to be your best work.

    I have been researching this on the internet and a few people have been saying that you should include an artist statement [if so what should this include??] and add in all of your relevant certificates [if so should this be in the book or be loose WITH the book??]

    Im on my summer holidays right now so i cannot ask my tutors at college like i normally would, so any suggestions anyone.
    If you have done your own photography portfolio and know what to put in it that would be much appreciated or if you find any useful websites [with tips and hints ??] also very helpful.

    Thanks,
    Louise

    • ANSWER:
      A portfolio is a photographic resume. You have to customize it for whom ever you're going to show it. For example, if you're going to show it to a newspaper editor, only show your absolute best sports, features, portraiture, and news tear sheets (I like to include a well-printed 4x5 along with the clip because newsprint isn't always the best reproduction). If you're going to a culinary magazine, then only include your absolute best food and table-top shots. If you're going into a portrait studio, only show your absolute best lighting set ups and portraits. Only include 15-20 shots total, any more than that is too much. Also include your actual resume (which should cover any relevant certificates, education, experience, or awards), which should also be tailored to the specific interviewer. Be prepared to leave your precious portfolio for them to review for a few days (so always make more than one copy). You could also include a CD slide show of your images for them to keep and review. And of course if you have an online portfolio, give them a link. Good luck!

27. QUESTION:
    How to make a photography portfolio for a REALLY GOOD university?
    i want to make my photography not to seem 'average' for a 16-17 year old
    there is a studio in my school with the normal tungsten lights and black background
    typically black and white
    and i tend ot travel during the summer
    i have a D90 with the average 18-115 mm lens
    Though im forced to go into sciences by parents i try to make time for photography
    career-wise i really want to get into companies like vanity fair
    But I want to know how to get everything ready if i want to aim..'high'?

    if u hav any websites/books in mind then that would be well appreciated
    ok i jsut realized the details od this question is a complete mess....sry i just got alot in my head ans distractions

    • ANSWER:
      Yeah, I'm just starting putting my portfolio together. I think the most important thing is to have your own style, and be confident in your work. Make it unique and different, and have it represent YOU. Since anyone can take pictures, you have to make yours stand out. And I can't tell you how to do that, no one can, you have to experiment and learn and teach yourself in order to have your own style. Don't listen to anyone - shoot for you.

28. QUESTION:
    photography portfolio help?
    hi
    I am looking for some sort of book that i can show my photography work off to people

    what do you suggest

    • ANSWER:
      Get a portfolio binder, you can sometimes find zippered binders at some office supply stores like Staples or Office Max...or art supply stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby. They come in different sizes, I used to use 11X14 and poster sized binders when I was marketing that way.

      Places like Calumet used to sell very nice portfolio supplies with things like binder pages for transparencies but they were also pricey.

      Here's a link to the Michael's products, I see they're called presentation cases there:

      http://www.michaels.com/art/online/displayProductPage?productNum=fa0428

      Also, here's a link to Porter's Portfolios, which are very functional, relatively inexpensive and look like they'd make a nice presentation:

      http://porters.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=PCS&Product_Code=560974&Product_Count=&Category_Code=

      Porter's isn't cheap either though...once you figure out what you want shop around. The two styles shown would look professional in most settings, though.

29. QUESTION:
    Creative ways to present a photography portfolio to a class?
    For my final project in my photography class, we have to present our photos. I have ten I am going to present. For the past two semesters, I have made art books to present my work, but I'm wondering if I should change it up? Obviously, the method my professor generally suggests is matting work and hanging it in the gallery, but I want to be more creative. Any ideas?
    I'm in an advanced photo course, so the images are pretty strong, I feel. They are surrealistic portraits. I would like to present it in a way that complements the subject matter.

    Some examples:
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/31443751@N05/5185999278/
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/31443751@N05/5232170944/
    

    • ANSWER:
      From your query it appears, your objective is visual presentation, in the most effective way. In this, the approach has to be to analyze the impact of the presentation, to the viewers. One of the approach is to suitably mounting (sort of framing etc.), with straight, angular, even upside down sometimes. One suggestion is to place the selected pictures on a large floor, in various orientations, to see the effect and the impact. Then choose the most appropriate one for presentation.

30. QUESTION:
    How can I present my photography final piece?
    For my final A Level Photography project, I am photographing contrast between old and new architecture in my city (Bristol, UK). I was thinking of presenting my work in an A3 or A2 Portfolio book. Does anyone have any better, more artistic ideas that could get me more marks for creativity and presentation?! Thanks!!!

    Hanah

    • ANSWER:
      photographs can be printed on anything from corrugated iron to glass..perhaps you could print your images on something other than normal photo paper.

31. QUESTION:
    What do I need to add to a graphic portfolio (photography and graphic arts)?
    I am looking to put a graphic arts portfolio together in order to land a better job. What is usually included? I have some photography, a political poster I created for an assignment, some typeography, a photoshop project, a indesign book cover, and a couple of illustrator things. What should I add and is there something that I should creat new and put in my portfolio. Thanks any suggestions or websites that might help.
    These are just to name a few of the things I have done and I am working on more at the moment was just trying to get a ruff idea of what to include in a portfolio.0

    • ANSWER:
      You can sell them
      This is how to do it:
      1. Scan to computer
      2. Upload to blog (create one if you haven't)
      3. Post specific information about you (artist), the art, your address, phone, etc.
      4. Tell to everyone via social network (facebook, twetter. Create one if you haven't)

      That's it

32. QUESTION:
    The best way to present images for a unviersity photography interview?
    In a black portfolio book

    OR

    I've seen these black card pieces in plastic wallets in an art shop and they looked pretty suitable considering I only need to present 4-6 images.

    In A3

    • ANSWER:
      well most everybody else will have a portfolio. So you need to decide whether you want to be different at this stage. The advantage of the wallets is that presumably they can be displayed next to each other all at once. The most important thing will be to be able to talk about whatever images you choose and why you chose them.

33. QUESTION:
    i need help with my photography portfolio?
    i need a binder or a book i want it to look really nice when i present it i would like a lether effect but nt to pricey thanx

    • ANSWER:
      there's some really nice stuff in boots and wh smith (if you're in the UK)
      Or just google 7x5" (or other size) portfolio. you'll find lots of stuff to choose from.

34. QUESTION:
    Hii I'm ~D~ I'm TRYING to put together a Photography 'Portfolio' and am not sure where or how to start! Ideas?
    over the last few yrs. I have been living in the Rocky Mtns. and have discovered a 'gift' and Passion for Photography! My hubby and I have also been checking out the MANY Gallery's here in our Mountain Community. Also Many people have told Me I should put together a portfolio.*Not just friends and relitives either,hahaa.. After seeing some of the 'artwork' here, I feel that I'm just as good if not Better than many of the Featured Artists/photographers ;o) *although I don't have a degree in photography or any school, just a 'good eye'?..So How does one get their 'Artwork' noticed, and possibly have some kind of 'showing' Myself..maybe even sell a few photos? That'd be REALLY Awesome ;o) Any Ideas anyone!? I'm a retired hairstylist of 26+ yrs. and am happy to have found something else that I'm pretty Darn Good At! might as well TRY and make a few dollars huh : ) lol..Thanks All..~D~
    *What about a 'Coffee' Table type Book? the quality looks good, and they are inexpensive 2 make?

    • ANSWER:
      Wow! Sounds exciting.

      From my experience, it's a process. And there is no perfect way to go.

      First - put together a portfolio of 12-20 prints of ONLY your very best work, and ONLY the style you love the most. Prints should be at least 8x10, and housed in a quality presentation portfolio, and, of course, flawlessly printed.

      Include a brief bio, including your motivation and artistic vision for your work, but EXCLUDING words like "I'm a beginner," or anything that implies you're the least bit shy about your experience or ability.

      Sure, you can create table top books fairly inexpensively these days. But it seems to me that thats something better left for a time when you've achieved some measure of recognition and success.

      Get to know gallery owners and ask them if they would be interested in seeing your portfolio. And if you find a gallery that's willing to represent you (even if it's consignment work), be loyal to them and expect them to be loyal and respectful to you and your work.

      Produce a Calendar featuring your work.

      Build a website featuring your work (contact me directly for details about this process). I currently operate three sites: one features my tutorials; another features my online gallery of images for sale; and the third is my Shuttefly Pro gallery where I sell primarily event photos.

      Below are addresses for two of them.

      Good luck! It's very competitive. It's really tough to find your market, or develop it, I should say.

      But it's also one of the most rewarding and satisfying pursuits around.

35. QUESTION:
    Portfolio for photography/art courses at Uni?
    I am doing A-Levels at the moment (including one in art) and I am thinking of doing an Art Foundation course at University, or studying photography - possibly after the foundation course. Most prospectuses and people say that you need a good portfolio of your work to get into a course - but what is a portfolio exactly? As in what is it physically, is it just like a big book with random pieces of art you have done in? and does it have to be work i have done on my own, or can it be my a-level work? and how do i make it good - what is the secret to a good portfolio? does it need to be annotated too or just the art and photographs? what would you recommend? thank you very much

    • ANSWER:
      I wonder who those "people" are?

      You are going to be attending those classes to learn how to produce excellent images that later you will place in your "portfolio" and use as an introduction to your shooting style and expertise when applying for work.

      A portfolio is simply a book with about 10 to 12 of your absolutely best images, both technically and creatively. The portfolio will change from time to time as your skills get better and/or you change the direction of your photo interests (scientific vs. fashion, wedding vs. public relations, editorial vs. environmental, etc.)

      Unless you are applying entrance in to a post graduate program and you are expected to already have some essential skills, portfolios are not usually required or even accepted.

36. QUESTION:
    Beautiful women photography book?
    I'm looking for something in the vein of a coffee table book with photographs in good taste of gorgeous woman. Coy housewives, vintage feel, etc. I guess some of the photos in Norma Jean Roy's Hitchcock Portfolio would be an example of the type of photography I am looking for. Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      Hello, ClonedBeef!

      Finding a photography book of beautiful women is as simple as visiting your local brick-and-mortar books store like Barnes & Noble or Borders. You can also do a keyword search (using "beautiful women photography" for example") on their websites--and additional online websites:

      http://www.barnesandnoble.com
      http://www.borders.com
      http://www.amazon.com

      You can also go to that old archaic favorite... your local public library.

      Good luck!

37. QUESTION:
    Any websites other than Blurb that make books?
    Am doing a photography project and when I'm done I'd like to put all the pictures together in a proper book so it'll be easy to show as part of a portfolio when I apply for photography courses in the future. I preferably want hardcover around 100 pages. Any websites you know? Not to expensive please.
    Thank-you in advance.

    • ANSWER:
      Lulu.com is quite good from what I've heard!

      Here's a link to the photobooks they do:
      http://www.lulu.com/uk/publish/photo_books/?cid=gb_home_nav_pbk

38. QUESTION:
    What do I put in my games design portfolio for a University interview?
    I've got an interview for Southampton Solent on a computer and video games course, and I'm not entirely sure what to put in to my portfolio. They asked for drawings from life, but I'm not sure how many I should put.. I do graphics and photography so should I put an equal amount of work in from each? and they asked me to do loads of drawings in sketchbooks, so when going to the interview, should I leave all the work in the books? any help would be great, thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      2 for each media. put in clear file / folder - back to back with captions. make 2 sets.

39. QUESTION:
    Photography/Video/Book Project Ideas?
    I'm taking an Advanced Photo course and can't seem to think of a good project...
    Here are some of the requirements:

    The subject chosen must be real --not fantastical.
    Anything physical or metaphysical can be the subject as long as the student/artist is committed to adopting a point of view.
    You must tell a story with conviction.
    Both video and photography must be used and the final project will be a portfolio, a book and a video.

    Any ideas?? Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      Take pictures and video of a photographer (you) trying to do this assignment. If you can convince yourself, then you can and have convinced the others.

      You can use... 'trying to convince people that you're worth their time and money' as your subject.

      This can be used as a life experience for when you go into the real world

40. QUESTION:
    Title for My Portfolio?
    Can Any One Suggest a Heading for my portfolio:
    My Portfolio contains Photography, Animation, Art, My Books And Some Graphic Design

    • ANSWER:
      Photoaniaphic!
      Ok maybe not.
      Do you have a theme? All flowers, or people?
      Name it that
      Or just "Your name's Portfolio".
      or
      "Diversity".
      Or
      

41. QUESTION:
    How do I start my photography business?
    I have upgraded to a DSLR camera and have taken some great photos. I have posted some of sunsets, flowers, birds and my kids on my face book and people have noticed and compliment how great my photos are. I am being asked if I am aiming for photography. I would definitely like to start a portfolio. My 4 year old daughter will not cooperate for a photo shoot. I have always wanted to get into photography business but how do I start. Thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      Sorry, but this reminds me too much of you!

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWF21sKSAUo
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGyk_T3JSCM&feature=related

      Sorry for being so rude, but this is a classic question...

      What is my real answer?

      Get some real critiques from real photographers, and take some classes. If you can, could you post some example photos online for us?

42. QUESTION:
    High school photographer needs portfolio help?
    I am planning on setting up appointments at Pratt and SVA for a portfolio review over the summer. I will be a senior next school year. I am a junior right now.

    How should I present my work in a portfolio? Should I use a big photo album, a self-bound book?

    How many pieces should I put in? I do black and white traditional photography and also color.

    I am concerned with the presentation because I don't know what kind of book I need to have it in.

    • ANSWER:
      i don't think it really matters what you have it in. the self bound book seem like an interesting idea. if you know how to do that. i don't know if this will work, but maybe you could take a picture of all your art wok, and put them on a slideshow. I would put as much of your work as possible in, just don't put any bad pictures in it. maybe you could somehow make your own photo album. you can buy those sheets in the store, the ones you actually put the pictures in, you can probably get them online too. and you can make your own cover, and have a lot of your pictures on the front. i would use just the black and white on the front, it would look really cool. then you could bind it all together somehow. it would creative, and it would definitely show your personality. i don't know. hopefully i helped ya out. =D

      good luck!

43. QUESTION:
    Meeting on photography for a wedding?
    Hi, I'm a starting photographer and I have my first wedding booked in May. I have a meeting with the bride and groom Friday. I have a list of questions to ask such as the first dance, time of the reception, etc. I also have a contract, portfolio and photography checklist to bring with me. Is there anything else that I need so I don't look like an unorganized idiot?

    • ANSWER:
      Sounds like you are pretty organized. To keep things flowing, I would suggest you start by asking the bride to tell you about her plans for how the day will unfold, from start to finish.

      This narrative will give you a timeline for the days events, and you can fill in any missing information that you are unclear on as she tells you about her plans.

      Ask for a copy of the invitation, and plan to include a photo of it - maybe with the wedding rings, or with the cake in the background. This will also give you the address and start times for the ceremony and reception, just to reconfirm what the bride is telling you.

      Also ask for a guest list, and go through it with the bride, so you know the "who is who" of the wedding party and immediate family.

      Request a copy of the program for the ceremony, and you'll be ready to capture all the "moments" as they happen. Mention to the bride that you may want to recreate some of the highlights - exchange of rings, kiss, etc. afterwards, just in case you missed the "live action". That way you'll still have backup for those "must have" photos.

      Also find out the names of the celebrant, DJ, and the caterer or event manager at the reception site. Give them a call a few days before the event to introduce yourself and get their insights. The DJ will have his own timeline for things like introducing the newlyweds, first dance, toasts, garter and bouquet toss, cake cutting, etc. Work with him and you won't be taking your dinner break at a critical moment!

      Instead of going down a checklist of random items, use a more conversational approach, and you'll get more information, and a better understanding of how they envision the day. Envision is an important word - because it's your job to turn their vision into images that reflect what they way in their minds.

      Best wishes to you, and your bride and broom.

      Regards,
      George
      Certified Professional Photographer
      http://www.NYPortraits.com

44. QUESTION:
    photography project ideas?
    I'm an Alevel student who doesn't have much to do this summer
    so i thought, why not start a photography project?
    i want to create a portfolio of images and edit them on photoshop, however, i don't know what to base my images on
    I was thinking of nature, gardens and stuff maybe? but i wanna hear your ideas guys!
    i dont wanna do humans/animals coz that will be too complicated for me lol

    Also, is there a certain way to make a portfolio? or can i just stick my edited photographs in a portfolio book?

    Cheers guys! x

    • ANSWER:
      Ok.
      So you are an A level student, so hopefully you will be more mature in what you do.
      Taking pics of shoes is for little kids, as seen many times on here, along with 'Heart shapes', bits of paper with writing on and other crappy stuff like that.
      How about channelling your energy into 'Street Photography' and doing it in B&W?
      Markets, High streets, people entering/exiting a station, or even getting on or off a train.
      Places around your village/town/city. People sitting outside a pub having lunch or in a discussion.

      Hope this helps.

      Also, when doing a PF, choose only your BEST dozen or so pictures, and also showing different genres of the art.
      Asda do prints cheaply and very good also, so choose your sizes carefully to suit your sensor or you may have to crop to fit. 10x8 or 12x8 would be good sizes.

45. QUESTION:
    Does anyone have creative ideas for the title of my photo book dealing with metaphors in nature?
    For my portfolio project in photography I am creating a book of images dealing with metaphors found in nature. The metaphors focus on human emotions and the human condition. I need a clever and short title. Please help!

    • ANSWER:
      metaphorphosis =]

46. QUESTION:
    Can anyone give me some ideas on what to name my photography book?
    For mothers day I have made my mom a collection of my photography and have placed in a nice portfolio. I want to name it on the spine, but cannot think of anything. It took so long to put together and organize all my energy is gone and I am at a complete loss. I also have been working on it all day and I am so sick of looking at it and working on it:(
    Any ideas. Its of random photos that I have taken . . .mostly of nature, sunsets, landscapes (night and day), etc. She likes my photography and wanted to make her something personal that is why I have chosen to do this.
    Serious answers only please
    at the begining of the book on the first page I have put a pic of me and her when I was young along with a quote from a song that she loves.
    @Louie: not really

    • ANSWER:
      Maybe you could just put, " Happy Mother's Day" in really pretty handwriting on the spine. Or maybe, "Beautiful Landscapes" or something like that. Or you could just ask your mother to name it what she wants.

47. QUESTION:
    Help getting into photography?
    I am interested in getting into professional photography. I have a steady job with nice income, so that's not a problem. I often see things and think 'wow, that would make a wonderful photo'. I realize that the road of actually making a living with photography can be pretty long, competitive, and involves a lot of hard work, but I'd like to get my foot in the door.

    My first step is to buy a nice DSLR Camera and some accessories. I'm willing to spend around 1,000 dollars on this. What specific models/accessories do you recommend?

    Secondly, what is a good path to take to begin working toward a career in photography? I plan to carry my camera around with me as much as possible just in case a good photo opportunity appears. I plan to also take some photography courses and read some books on photography techniques. After I gain a good amount of experience, I plan to start entering photography related contests. I then plan to start building a portfolio. What other advice can you offer?

    • ANSWER:
      I think you hit one the big ones:
      - getting a formal education in photography
      (one of the key benefits is to have your photos critiqued in class)
      - keeping your equipment with you to seize the opportunities
      (I would add, review your photos with a critical eye)
      - get as much experience as possible.

      Some other things - look at photography professional associations. Often times, besides web site or magazines, they may offer workshops for your specialty

      Lastly, photography today just about requires that you are good with photo manipulation in something like Photoshop or Photoshop Elements. Learning that is a joy on to itself.

      At some point you'll need to decide where you will specialize.

48. QUESTION:
    Photography rights to display.?
    If a person has given me oral permission to place a picture I have taken of them in a Portfolio book, am I also legally able to use this picture on a website?
    Thanks for the answers guys. I should have mentioned I am in the UK is a model release still required?

    • ANSWER:
      Yes you are and no, no model release is required.

      You, as the copyright holder have the right to do what you want with the image.
      In the UK, unlike the sue everyone for everything US, there is NO requirement for a model release for any publication of the photograph.
      The only time the subject would have any comeback would be if the publication of the image were to libel or defame them. For instance if the caption stated something along the lines of "here is Jane the prossy touting for business" or such.

      That said. The majority of serious publications would require a release prior to publishing, just to cover their own backsides.

49. QUESTION:
    i want to take photography at collage but didnt take art in senior school?
    and the collages book says you need a c in art or a portfolio i have neither please help me what should i do

    • ANSWER:
      Might be a beginners Art and Design course in college you can do. Like foundation Art and Design or intermediate Art and Design.

50. QUESTION:
    Book suggestions for building freelance nature photography business?
    Hello... I am trying to select 1 or 2 books that can provide me with detailed, reliable, current info about how to turn my love of nature/landscape photography into a part time freelance business. I'd like a)info about the world of freelance nature photography- the market, strategies, how to set up a portfolio, where to submit, copyrighting, networking, etc. and b) some tips on what is marketable.
    What are your suggestions? I've looked on amazon, and there are so many... not sure what to base my selection on. If anyone has personal experience with this, I'd love to hear it! Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      The Photographer's Market is a good book. You can submit to publishers etc..